A former Cumbria Chief Constable who today has a national role in improving the police response to domestic abuse and protecting people from violence has been honoured for her unwavering public service.
University of Cumbria has bestowed an Honorary Fellowship upon Michelle Skeer QPM OBE in recognition of her lifelong contribution to public service.
Addressing graduands at Carlisle Cathedral, Michelle said: “Public service is not always easy, and you will know by now that it is certainly not glamorous, but it is incredibly rewarding – waking up each day knowing you will make a difference to someone’s day gives unmatched job satisfaction.
“Believe in yourselves and remember that real success comes down to hard work. You should be immensely proud of the dedication you have already shown – the voluntary hours worked, and the people you have helped to date. You are extremely talented, caring, and compassionate. In public service you will deal with people at the very worst time of their lives – they need people like you.
“There will be tough times but stay focused – people will never forget the help you give, how you make them feel, and the safe space you offer. Public service is a gift.”
In 2018, Michelle became the first woman to be appointed to the role of Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary.
She retired from that role in 2023, after more than 30 years of service, before moving onto a second career.
She now works for His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS). Today, this national HMICFRS role focuses on protecting people from violence and abuse; police-engagement with women and girls; improving the police response to domestic abuse; and national child-protection inspections.
Regionally, Michelle also deals with inspection, monitoring and reporting on the efficiency and effectiveness of all the constabularies and fire and rescue services in the north of England, with the aim of encouraging improvement.
Michelle was born and brought up in Carlisle, where she attended Newman Secondary School. Michelle joined Cumbria Constabulary in 1990.
She spent most of her career within Crime Command where she served in every rank and as a Chief Officer from 2009, leading major investigations in serious and organised crime and helping to protect vulnerable people.
Michelle received the Queen’s Policing Medal (QPM) for her distinguished service in the New Year’s Honours list in December 2017 and was awarded an OBE in the King’s 2023 Birthday Honours List in recognition of her 33 years’ service to policing.
Michelle has also carried several national portfolios on behalf of policing in the UK including the Management of Sexual Offenders and Violent Offenders and leading on gender diversity as the President of the British Association of Women in Policing.
She was vice chair of the National Police Chiefs Council which brings all the Chief Constables from the country together in one decision-making forum.
Locally, Michelle is a non-executive trustee of Austin Friars School in Carlisle.
Graduands in attendance on this final day of ceremonies this November have gained academic awards and professional qualifications in public services such as nursing and paramedic practice.
They include undergraduates who have studied in sites including Barrow, Lancaster and Carlisle along with learners who have completed academic programmes whilst working in frontline positions in London Ambulance Service and North West Ambulance Service.
Dr Jonathan Eaton, Pro Vice Chancellor (Teaching and Learning) at University of Cumbria, said: “Michelle has demonstrated significant vision and dedication and has been an inspiration to many people over the years.
“It is immensely important to honour a proud Cumbrian like Michelle who offers such a range of experience and expertise and has achievements of notable distinction.”
